National Hydro-Electric Power Corporation – Loktak Downstream Hydro Electric Project 3×30/2×33 MW
Location: MANIPUR
Capacity: [MW 3 X 30/ 2X33]
The scope of the project in the original scheme comprised a 64.5 Meters high earth dam across river Loktak, head race tunnel( HRT)- 4.5 m dia and 5.8 Km long surface Power House to house 3 units of 30 MW each, spillway and tail race channel 46 m long.
The project is located in the militant infested area and the progress of work is adversely affected due to frequent threats and interference of armed terrorists. As per the agreement entered into with the state Government of Manipur, security arrangements were to be made available for execution of the project to NHPC personnel etc. However, despite several requests to DGP, Honble Minister of Environment and Forest, Honble Minister of Manipur and other authorities in the State Govt., the desired security cover has not been provided by the State Govt. till date. References have also been made by NHPC to Union Home Ministry for providing armed security but without any result so far. One of the Chief Engineers of NHPC who was incharge of Loktak HEP was brutally killed by the militants on 12th January, 2000. Though infrastructure activities like land acquisition, office & residential accommodation, geological exploration etc. had been initiated at the site, the desired progress has not been possible due to non-presence of adequate security at the project-site. The work on construction of road that started on 1.10.2000 had to be stopped on 21.10.2000, due to stay order by the Guwahati High Court in connection with land acquisition case.
Present Status:Keeping in view the current status of the project, there is now a proposal to revise the existing configuration of the project. In the new dispensation, there is a proposal to lower the installed capacity from the level of 90 MW to 66 MW involving construction of a 28 m high barrage instead of the original 64.5 m high dam. The matter is currently under the consideration of PIB/CCEA. The 66 MW hydel plant at Loktak is proposed to be installed under joint venture between NHPC and Govt. of Manipur. Formation of JV company is in progress and the promoters Agreement has been signed with State Govt on 26.09.08.
